Oldest WWI Veteran, Henry Allingham dies aged 113.

BBC ^ | 07.18.09 | BBC

[sinsofsolarempirefan]

Oldest WWI veteran dies aged 113

Henry Allingham was the last surviving founding member of the RAF

Henry Allingham, the world's oldest man and one of the last surviving World War I servicemen, has died at the age of 113, his care home has said.

Mr Allingham served with the Royal Naval Air Service in WWI, later transferring to the Royal Air Force at the time of its creation.

Bosses at his Brighton care home said everybody was "saddened by Henry's loss and our sympathy goes to his family".

Last month, Mr Allingham, born in 1896, became the world's oldest man.

His funeral will take place later this month at St Nicholas' Church in Brighton.

Mr Allingham, whose life has spanned three centuries and six monarchs, has five grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, 14 great-great grandchildren and one great-great-great grandchild.

Henry Allingham's 113th birthday celebrations in June

He joined the Royal Navy Air Service in September 1915 and served in Ypres before transferring to the RAF in April 1918.

In November last year, he took part in ceremonies to mark the 90th anniversary of the end of WWI.

Speaking before events began, Mr Allingham said he couldn't forget the war even if he wanted to.

"I saw too many things I would like to forget but I never will forget them, I never can forget them," he said.

Last month, the Royal Navy hosted a birthday party on HMS President in London for his family, close friends and members of the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force.

[Vanders9]

I think the rebellious scots in question were Bonnie Prince Charlies highlanders.

[Forgiven_Sinner]

“I think the rebellious scots in question were Bonnie Prince Charlies highlanders.”

Yes, that’s whom I thought of as well.

[Ciexyz]

My Granddad, a WW I Navy veteran, is probably up there sharing stories with Mr. Allingham right now.

May the Lord bless the family and loved ones of this fine veteran.